ACT: All Accommodations Approved

The ACT recently announced it will start automatically approving accommodations that are already included in students’ Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) or 504 plans.

“Beginning with the 2021-22 testing year, students who already receive accommodations at their school under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act will automatically be eligible to receive the allowable testing accommodations when they register for the ACT with accommodations.” – ACT Press Release This is great news for students who already have an IEP or 504 in place as it will streamline the registration process and eliminate the application and subsequent waiting period for approval of accommodations. The burden of documentation has been reduced to a copy of the IEP or 504; no more jumping through hoops to demonstrate anything additional that what has already been in use in your day-to-day school experience.

Testing accommodations, as defined by the ADA, are changes to the regular testing environment that allow individuals with disabilities to demonstrate their true aptitude or achievement level on standardized tests.

Accommodations can range from extended time (50% or 100% “extra time”) to distraction-free (private) rooms. Dr. Scott Koenig, our expert psychologist who specializes in supporting our students with accommodations, applauds the ACT’s new process as it removes an unnecessary hurdle for those applying for the test with accommodations.

Accommodations might be an appropriate part of your child’s testing strategy. Dr. Koenig has extensive experience in managing the accommodations approval process for a wide range of students’ needs including anxiety, ADHD, dyslexia and vision challenges.

If you’re ready to take the next step in leveraging our expertise to maximize your child’s next test day results, connect with us here.